Madame Butterfly tells the story of a beautiful geisha named Butterfly, who falls in love with Lieutenant Pinkerton,an American Naval Officer. She gives herself to him completely and commits to him forever but he must leave for his ship and as the years pass, he fails to return, leaving her with his child and only the hope that he will soon be back with her. When Pinkerton's ship finally returns, he is not alone - with him he brings his American wife. Filled with grief and despair, Butterfly surrenders her child to them and with it her will to live. Left alone, she finds her only escape in suicide and becomes free at last. This tragic tale is portrayed only through dance and music and Northern Ballet Theatre's ability to do this is amazing. Chiaki Nagao, in the role of Butterfly, has an extraordinary talent at combining dance and theatre to characterise Butterfly’s emotions and thoughts, so that the audience is able to interpret without the need of words. Her body language and facial expressions are outstanding and her portrayal of the character a credit to the company. The production displays some fantastic choreography and dancing skills. Butterfly’s dream sequence, in particular, truly captivates the audience and displays some first-class ballet ability. The costume and lighting also play a huge part in the production and are incredibly successful in helping to tell the story and create different atmospheres. The lighting is particularly expressive in the final sequence in which Butterfly dies. The striking colours provide instant atmosphere adding to the powerful and hypnotising performance. The Northern Ballet Orchestra cannot go without a mention, providing a high quality performance of Puccini's famous score, and with the talent of the musicians matching that of the dancers. The two work together in a harmonious partnership making the production both distinguished and compelling. The thunderous applause the cast received on Wednesday night’s performance is evidence in itself of the high standard of the show. An unfaultable performance, and a must for any ballet enthusiast or for those who just wish to enjoy a night of sophisticated passion and dance, Madame Butterfly can simply not be missed. The Northern Ballet Theatre’s production of Madame Butterfly is at Bradford's Alhambra theatre until Saturday, 11th February, 2006. | 
